Adventure Brief
Spend three days horseback riding through John Muir Wilderness, camp lakeside, and discover serene forests and meadows with Rock Creek Pack Station's Labor Day Trail Ride.
3 days
moderate
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Spend three days horseback riding through John Muir Wilderness, camp lakeside, and discover serene forests and meadows with Rock Creek Pack Station's Labor Day Trail Ride.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness recommended for daily horseback riding over varied terrain.
Wildlife
History
The John Muir Wilderness was established in 1964 and honors conservationist John Muir, protector of Sierra landscapes.
Conservation
The pack station follows strict environmental practices to minimize impact, keeping trails and campsites pristine.
Rock Creek Pack Station
Spend three days horseback riding through John Muir Wilderness, camp lakeside, and discover serene forests and meadows with Rock Creek Pack Station's Labor Day Trail Ride.
Rock Creek Pack Station operates as a Sierra Nevada pack station and trail outfitter offering horseback rides, pack-supported hikes, and multiday backcountry trips. Based at Rock Creek, the outfitter runs a range of experiences: short All Day and Day in the Sierra rides at Cottonwood, family-focused Parent & Child Trail Rides, seasonal specials like Fourth of July and Fall Color Trail Rides, and extended wilderness journeys including 3-day, 4-day, 7-day, 11-day, and 31-day expeditions along the John Muir Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and routes into Yosemite National Park and the John Muir Wilderness.
Riders aged six and up are welcome on select rides, and safety measures accommodate younger participants. Trips combine riding, fishing, and camping with opportunities to learn basic horse care and pack-stock skills. Hilton Lakes trips camp near Davis Lake and explore upper lakes and alpine meadows; Yosemite itineraries traverse Virginia Lakes, Twin Lakes, and scenic passes to secluded high country camps. Multi-day John Muir Trail and Pacific Crest Trail offerings cover long-distance travel over alpine terrain, wildflower valleys, and trout fishing in remote lakes and streams. Rock Creek Pack Station also supports hiking with pack stock, allowing hikers to extend range while carrying gear. Booking information, seasonal schedules, and packing recommendations are available through the pack station. The station emphasizes safe, family-friendly backcountry access and memorable outdoor experiences across the Sierra backcountry, from single-day scenic rides to month-long wilderness treks. Guests can photograph wildlife, watch alpine sunsets, and return home with lasting outdoor memories and new skills.
Routes
John Muir + Yosemite
Iconic Sierra trails and wilderness
Family Friendly
Ages 6+
Rides available for young riders
Trip Lengths
Day–31 days
Short rides to epic thru-rides
Pack Stock
Horse & pack stock
Hiking and riding with pack animals
Secure day rides, family trail experiences, or long-distance John Muir Trail departures — limited space on peak dates.
Acclimate to Elevation
Spend a day in Bishop beforehand to adjust to the high elevation and prevent altitude sickness.
Bring Layered Clothing
Temperatures can vary greatly between day and night; pack moisture-wicking and insulating layers.
Hydration is Key
Carry sufficient water and drink regularly during rides to stay hydrated in dry mountain air.
Respect Wilderness Rules
Practice Leave No Trace ethics to preserve the pristine environment encountered on the trail.
Riding boots
Provide ankle support and protect feet during trail rides.
summer
Lightweight rain jacket
Prepare for sudden mountain showers and changing weather.
summer
Wide-brimmed hat
Shield against sun exposure during long rides.
summer
Hydration pack
Ensures hands-free access to water while mounted.
summer